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Wembanyama Sets Historic Playoff Milestone as NBC Draws Record Viewership

5/27/2026

Summary

Wembanyama Sets Record

Victor Wembanyama’s 33 points in Game 5 raised his total to 324, making him the only player since 1974 with 300+ points, 150+ rebounds and 50+ blocks.
NBC Sports will air Games 6 (May 28) and 7 (May 30), 2026, with Mike Tirico, Reggie Miller, Jamal Crawford, Zora Stephenson and Ashley ShahAhmadi commentating.
Game 1 on May 18, 2026 drew 9.2 million viewers (peak 12.0 million) while Game 2 on May 20, 2026 attracted 10.1 million, setting series records.

Summary

Wembanyama Blocks Record

San Antonio forced 17 turnovers and 11 steals in the 103-82 win.
Coach Mitch Johnson said the new defensive plan held Shai Gilgeous-Alexander to 19 points.
Victor Wembanyama logged 53 blocks and 23 threes this postseason, a first since 1974.
The Thunder entered Game 5 without Ajay Mitchell and listed Jalen Williams questionable with a hamstring.
Fox noted Wembanyama avoids blue light after nine p.m. and uses recovery glasses.

History

Historical Context

In 1974 the Boston Celtics captured their 13th NBA championship, defeating the Milwaukee Bucks 4-3 in a series that featured two overtime games and a 102-87 Game 7 victory. The win marked the Celtics’ first title since 1969 and the last road Game 7 triumph until 2022, highlighting the era’s disciplined defense led by coach Tom Heinsohn and star John Havlicek.

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Wembanyama Sets Record

Victor Wembanyama’s 33 points in Game 5 raised his total to 324, making him the only player since 1974 with 300+ points, 150+ rebounds and 50+ blocks.
NBC Sports will air Games 6 (May 28) and 7 (May 30), 2026, with Mike Tirico, Reggie Miller, Jamal Crawford, Zora Stephenson and Ashley ShahAhmadi commentating.
Game 1 on May 18, 2026 drew 9.2 million viewers (peak 12.0 million) while Game 2 on May 20, 2026 attracted 10.1 million, setting series records.

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